Coffee Tres Leches Cake Recipe [FULL GUIDE]

Oh wow, if you haven’t tried Coffee Tres Leches Cake yet, you’re in for an absolute treat! This dessert is a beautiful fusion of flavors and textures, combining the classic Latin American tres leches cake with the deep, aromatic punch of coffee. Imagine a soft, airy sponge cake soaked in a dreamy three-milk mixture – sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and heavy cream – but with a bold coffee twist that wakes up your taste buds.

• Why it’s special: Tres leches cake is famous for being incredibly moist and rich without feeling heavy. Adding coffee takes it to another level – that perfect balance between sweetness and a slightly bitter, robust edge.
• Cultural roots: Tres leches cake has deep roots in Latin America, beloved across many countries for celebrations and family gatherings. Adding coffee feels like a modern, sophisticated spin on a classic.
• The experience: Each bite melts in your mouth, with the coffee flavor subtly lingering behind the creamy sweetness, making it irresistible.

So, if you’re looking to impress guests or simply indulge yourself, this Coffee Tres Leches Cake recipe is exactly what you need!

Coffee Tres Leches Cake Recipe

Alright, ready to bake? Here’s the full scoop on what you’ll be making:

• A soft vanilla sponge cake infused with just a hint of coffee.
• Three-milk soak – condensed milk, evaporated milk, and heavy cream – blended with brewed coffee or espresso.
• A fluffy, lightly sweetened whipped cream topping that crowns the whole cake with elegance.
• Optional toppings like chocolate shavings, cinnamon dust, or espresso powder for a final flourish.

This recipe strikes the perfect harmony between moistness and flavor intensity, resulting in a dessert that feels decadent yet fresh.

Ingredients Needed

Let’s get our pantry checklist ready. Precision is key for this cake to come out perfectly moist and flavorful.

For The Cake

• 1 cup all-purpose flour – the base of your sponge
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder – helps the cake rise beautifully
• ¼ teaspoon salt – balances sweetness
• 5 large eggs – separated into yolks and whites for that airy texture
• 1 cup granulated sugar – split between the yolks and whites
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – classic flavor enhancer
• ⅓ cup strong brewed coffee or espresso – infuses the cake with that signature coffee kick

For The Tres Leches Soak

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk – super sweet and creamy
• 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk – adds richness without heaviness
• 1 cup heavy cream – for luscious texture
• ½ cup brewed coffee or espresso – adds depth and complexity to the soak

For The Topping

• 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream – chilled for best whipping results
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar – for light sweetness
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances creaminess

Optional Garnishes

• Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder
• Ground cinnamon or nutmeg
• Espresso powder dusting
• Crushed coffee beans or toasted nuts for crunch

How To Make Coffee Tres Leches Cake

Here’s where the magic happens, step by step, with some personal flair thrown in:

1. Prep And Preheat

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan – this cake is delicate, so a well-prepped pan is essential.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

   • Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.

3. Beat Egg Yolks & Sugar

   • In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks with ½ cup sugar until the mixture is pale and thick.
   • Stir in the vanilla extract and brewed coffee.

4. Whip Egg Whites

   • In a separate bowl, whip egg whites until soft peaks form.
   • Gradually add the remaining ½ cup sugar and whip until stiff, glossy peaks form.

5. Combine

   • Gently fold the dry ingredients into the yolk mixture.
   • Carefully fold in the whipped egg whites, preserving the airiness.

6. Bake

   • Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
   • Let the cake cool completely.

7. Make The Tres Leches Soak

   • Whisk together the condensed milk, evaporated milk, heavy cream, and brewed coffee until smooth.

8. Soak The Cake

   • Poke holes all over the cooled cake with a fork or skewer.
   • Slowly pour the milk mixture over the cake, allowing it to soak in. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight for ultimate moistness.

9. Whip Topping

   • Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
   • Spread over the soaked cake.

10. Garnish And Serve

    • Sprinkle with your chosen toppings.
    • Slice, serve chilled, and watch your guests swoon!

Ingredient Science Spotlight

Now, let’s geek out for a minute on why this cake works so well:

• Egg separation: Beating egg whites separately traps air, creating volume and a fluffy sponge. Folding them in gently keeps that airy texture intact.
• Baking powder: The leavening agent reacts to moisture and heat, helping the cake rise and stay light.
• Three milks: Each milk plays a unique role – condensed milk brings sweetness and density, evaporated milk adds richness but is less sweet, and heavy cream contributes fat for luscious texture.
• Coffee: The coffee’s acidity interacts with the baking powder and egg proteins, enhancing the cake’s flavor and balancing the sweetness.
• Soaking technique: Poking holes ensures the milk mixture penetrates deeply, making every bite moist and flavorful, not soggy.

Understanding these elements helps you appreciate how each ingredient contributes to that perfect harmony.

Expert Tips

Because I love sharing pro tricks to elevate your baking:

• Use fresh coffee: Brew fresh espresso or very strong coffee – instant coffee just won’t deliver the same depth.
• Chill your cream bowl: For the best whipped cream, chill your mixing bowl and beaters beforehand.
• Don’t rush soaking: The longer the cake soaks (at least 4 hours, ideally overnight), the more flavorful and moist it becomes.
• Room temp ingredients: Make sure eggs are at room temperature for better volume when whipping.
• Avoid overmixing: When folding in egg whites, be gentle to keep the fluffiness intact.
• Try a light dusting of cinnamon or cocoa powder for added warmth and complexity.
• Make ahead: This cake tastes better the next day, so prep it in advance for parties or special occasions.

Recipe Variations

Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun twists:

• Mocha Tres Leches: Add cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolate coffee fusion.
• Caramel Coffee: Drizzle caramel sauce on top before serving for extra indulgence.
• Spiced Coffee: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom into the batter or soak.
• Non-dairy: Substitute the three milks with coconut condensed milk, coconut cream, and almond milk for a dairy-free version.
• Alcohol boost: Add a tablespoon of coffee liqueur or rum to the milk soak for adult flavor sophistication.
• Fruit topping: Fresh berries or sliced bananas add a fresh, tangy contrast.

Final Words

Coffee Tres Leches Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a conversation starter, a comfort food, and a slice of heaven all at once. It brings together rich traditions and modern flavors in a way that makes you want to keep coming back for just one more bite. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a go-to showstopper for birthdays, holidays, or just when you want to treat yourself.

FAQs

What Is Coffee Tres Leches Cake?

Coffee tres leches cake is a delicious variation of the traditional Latin American tres leches cake. It combines a light, airy sponge cake soaked in three types of milk (evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream) with the added richness of brewed coffee for an extra layer of flavor.

How Do I Make The Coffee For The Tres Leches Cake?

To make coffee for the cake, simply brew a strong cup of coffee. Use a dark roast or espresso for a bolder flavor that complements the sweetness of the tres leches milk mixture. About 1/2 to 3/4 cup of coffee is typically added to the milk mixture.

Can I Use Instant Coffee Instead Of Brewed Coffee?

Yes, you can use instant coffee to save time. Dissolve 1-2 teaspoons of instant coffee in hot water to achieve a similar depth of flavor as brewed coffee.

What Is The Best Type Of Cake To Use For A Coffee Tres Leches Cake?

A sponge cake or chiffon cake is typically used for tres leches cakes because of its light texture and ability to absorb the milk mixture without becoming soggy. You can also use a basic vanilla or plain cake recipe.

Can I Make The Coffee Tres Leches Cake Ahead Of Time?

Yes, coffee tres leches cake can be made in advance. It’s actually recommended to let the cake soak in the milk mixture for several hours or overnight in the fridge to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to absorb the liquid fully.

What Toppings Should I Use For Coffee Tres Leches Cake?

Traditional toppings for tres leches cake include whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or cocoa powder. For coffee tres leches cake, a dollop of freshly whipped cream with a dusting of cocoa powder or chocolate shavings works wonderfully.

Can I Substitute Regular Milk In The Tres Leches Mixture With Plant-based Milk?

Yes, you can substitute regular milk with plant-based alternatives like almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk. However, keep in mind that the flavor may differ slightly depending on the milk you choose.

How Do I Prevent The Cake From Becoming Too Soggy?

To prevent the cake from becoming too soggy, ensure the cake is not over-soaked with the milk mixture. Pour the milk mixture slowly and in small increments, allowing the cake to absorb it gradually. You can also adjust the milk-to-cake ratio based on your preference for moisture.

Can I Add Alcohol To My Coffee Tres Leches Cake Recipe?

Yes, you can add a splash of alcohol like rum or Kahlúa to the milk mixture for an extra layer of flavor. Just be cautious with the amount, as you don’t want it to overpower the coffee taste.

How Long Does Coffee Tres Leches Cake Last In The Refrigerator?

Coffee tres leches cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The cake will continue to soak up the milk mixture and improve in flavor as it sits.